Bachelor of Humanitarian and Development Studies (CRICOS course code 088714E) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Western Sydney University over 3 years. This program is designed for students passionate about addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and social justice. As part of the Society and Culture field (Human Welfare Studies and Services), the course equips graduates with skills in community development, policy analysis, and humanitarian response. Western Sydney University, a government-owned institution with CRICOS 00917K, offers this program at its Parramatta and Penrith (Kingswood) campuses. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, this course stands out for its practical work-integrated learning component, including 14 weeks of placement (420 hours). International students benefit from ESOS Act protections and can rely on HeadStart Academy's free, data-driven guidance sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Whether you aim to work for NGOs, government agencies, or international organisations, this degree provides a robust foundation. Read on for fees, entry requirements, and how to apply.
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Bachelor of Humanitarian and Development Studies (CRICOS course code 088714E) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) delivered by Western Sydney University over 3 years (156 weeks). It sits within the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' (specialisation 0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services). This course is not a dual qualification, does not include foundation studies, and is not a VET program. It is taught entirely in English. The program features a mandatory work component of 14 weeks at 30 hours per week (approximately 420 hours total), offering practical experience in humanitarian and development contexts. Western Sydney University is a government-owned institution with CRICOS provider code 00917K, registered since 1992. International students can trust that this course meets ESOS Act standards for quality and consumer protection. HeadStart Academy lists this course among 26,433 others on our platform, all verified against the official CRICOS register.
This degree focuses on human welfare studies and services, preparing graduates to analyse and address complex social issues. Students typically explore theories of development, humanitarian principles, project management, and cross-cultural communication. While specific subjects are determined by Western Sydney University, the field of education ensures a broad understanding of social policy, community engagement, and ethical practice. Graduates are equipped to work in diverse settings, from local community organisations to international NGOs. The course also develops critical thinking, research, and leadership skills essential for the humanitarian and development sector.
The course is structured over 3 years (156 weeks on the CRICOS register). All instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to study full-time to maintain compliance with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The standard study load is four subjects per semester, with breaks aligned with university calendars. For specific intakes and study modes (e.g., on-campus, blended), check Western Sydney University's website.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$97,488 total, with non-tuition fees of A$900, giving an estimated total of A$98,388. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Western Sydney University. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. Living costs in Sydney (including Parramatta and Kingswood) are estimated at around A$500–600 per week for rent, food, and transport. Always confirm current fees with the provider before applying. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees; we provide this data as a free resource.
International students typically need an overall IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 with no band below 5.5–6.0, or an equivalent English test result. Applicants must have completed a qualification equivalent to an Australian Year 12 (or the relevant certificate for this AQF Level 7 program). Some may need to complete a foundation or pathway program if they do not meet direct entry requirements. Western Sydney University may also consider previous study or work experience. For precise requirements, consult the provider. HeadStart Academy recommends checking with a registered migration agent for visa eligibility.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 14 weeks, with 30 hours per week (approximately 420 hours total). This placement provides practical experience in humanitarian and development settings, such as NGOs, government agencies, or community organisations. It allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, develop professional networks, and gain references for future employment. The placement is supervised and assessed as part of the degree. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for this work component; generally, Student visa (Subclass 500) holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
The course is delivered at two Western Sydney University campuses: Parramatta (Parramatta, NSW) and Penrith (Kingswood, NSW). Parramatta is a major western Sydney hub with excellent public transport (train, bus, ferry) and a vibrant student community. Kingswood, near Penrith, offers a suburban setting with access to the Blue Mountains. Both campuses are well-served by transport and have student support services. Sydney is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers, offering diverse study options. Living costs in Parramatta are slightly lower than Sydney CBD, with weekly rent averaging A$200–300 for shared accommodation.
International students studying this course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. To obtain a visa, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, have sufficient financial capacity for tuition and living costs, and maintain OSHC throughout your stay. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of enrolment (CoE), English proficiency, and health insurance. ESOS Act protections ensure you receive quality education and consumer rights. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Bachelor of Humanitarian and Development Studies at Western Sydney University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to find courses like this one, filtering by level, field, and location. Verify CRICOS status on the official register. 2. Apply directly to Western Sydney University: Prepare your documents (transcripts, English test results, personal statement) and submit through the university's international admissions portal. Check deadlines and entry requirements. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the university issues a CoE. Then submit your visa application to the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you meet GTE, financial, and OSHC requirements.
Explore this course on Western Sydney University's website or use HeadStart Academy to compare similar programs.
Bachelor of Humanitarian and Development Studies is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.